Daily Gospel Reflection for July 5, 2015

It’s so easy to fall into the roles we have had all our lives, isn’t it? I’ve always been “the smart one,” so I’ve carried that with me. I always feel sort of ashamed when I’m not smart enough or can’t figure something out. I push myself—and that’s largely a good thing.

Our roles can limit us, though, lock us into an approach or a perspective that isn’t necessarily right for us. We can see ourselves as “just” mothers or daughters or women. We can stop trying because it’s not “our” problem or “our” concern.

And yet, though Jesus wasn’t able to perform any mighty deeds in his hometown, because of the people’s lack of faith, it didn’t stop him from showing up, from trying. Sometimes, doing what needs to be done—or what we’re called to do—is uncomfortable and even offensive to other people.

“How dare you?” they whisper. “What gives you the right?” they accuse. “Why bother?” they ask. Maybe they harangue, harass, hector. Perhaps they yell, point, or snicker. Possibly they’re just annoying and persistent.

Ponder:

Living against what the world deems good and right is hard work sometimes. How can you strengthen yourself for the battle you face?

Pray:

Lord, give me the strength to remain strong in the face of opposition. Grant me the grace to cooperate with your will in my life, even when it flies in the face of what everyone else thinks I should do. Amen.

About Author

When she’s not chasing kids, chugging coffee, or juggling work, Sarah Reinhard’s usually trying to stay up read just one…more…chapter. She writes and works in the midst of rural farm life with little ones underfoot. She is part of the team for the award-winning Catholic Mom’s Prayer Companion, as well as the author of a number of books. You can join her for a weekday take on Catholic life by subscribing to Triple Take, from Our Sunday Visitor.